A generation ago travel in Mongolia would have been hard to come by. After the fall of the Soviet Union, Mongolia has embraced its future as a thriving young Democracy and welcoming tourism.

Visitors to Mongolia can experience its nomadic culture and enjoy the vast untouched views of the landscapes.

Here are our three favorite choices for those looking for a luxury hotel in Mongolia.

Terelj Hotel

Photo Courtesy of Terelj Hotel

Within the Gorkhi-Terelj National Park, the Terelj Hotel sits waiting to immerse its guests in luxury.

This resort property sits just 70 kilometers north of the Mongolian capital of Ulaanbaatar. With just 52 rooms and suites, you can expect to be pampered during your stay at the Terelj.

The on-site spa occupies its own wing of the hotel overlooking the Terelj River. It offers an array of massages, facials, and nail treatments to help you relax.

It also boasts a columned Tereljmaa heated pool perfect for the chilly Mongolian winters in addition to a sauna and steam room.

When you’re ready to leave the hotel, start your adventure in the Gorkhi-Terelj National Park with a visit to the Genghis Khan Statue Complex.

The statue of Ghengis Khan is the largest equestrian statue in the world, standing an impressive 131 feet tall. The hotel can also arrange day trips for you horseback riding along the Terelj River or exploring the capital city of Ulaanbaatar.

Shangri-La Hotel

Photo Courtesy of Shangri-La Hotel

For a more urban retreat, the Shangri-La Hotel in the heart of Ulaanbaatar cannot be beaten.

This 290 room hotel caters to both business and pleasure travelers.

It’s proximity to nearby embassies makes it attractive for overseas guests. The hotel is within walking distance of many attractions in Ulaanbaatar like the Government House and city center shopping.

Guests at the Shangri-La are treated to rooms with panoramic views and concierge level service. The dining at the hotel is second to none.

The Café Park restaurant has a unique open theatre kitchen which is the first of its kind in the city. Guests also rave about Naadam, the hotels second level restaurant with outdoor seating and expansive mountain and city views.

For those looking for traditional Chinese cuisine, the Hutong restaurant also onsite offers Dongbei cuisine that must be experienced to be believed.

Kempinski Hotel Khan Palace

Photo Courtesy of Kempinski Hotel Khan Palace

For true five star service in Mongolia, look no further than the Kempinski Hotel Khan Palace. This hotel is also located in Ulaanbaatar, however, it lies a slight distance from the city noise and provides easy access to the surrounding countryside.

The staff at the Kempinski Hotel leave no detail unattended.

What makes the hotel however are the staff. You can tell that this hotel is superbly managed. Every member of the staff took pride in the hotel and being kind to guests in a natural way.

We found Mongolians extremely warm and kind, but the hotel staff at the Kempinski take it up a notch.

The hotel also offers a full fitness center and sauna attached to the newly opened New Astor Spa. After indulging in one of the many spa treatments available, guests can enjoy a meal at one of the three onsite restaurants or have a cocktail in the lounge and bar.

The concierge will gladly assist guests in planning activities around local events,

or set up tours over the picturesque countryside.

There is no doubt that much of the charm of Mongolia lies in its nomadic culture. The Mongolians are welcoming in nature and will invite you to join them in their ger, or traditional yurt, at a moment’s notice.

That being said, it is also nice to come back to a luxury hotel in Mongolia between adventures and recharge!